Republican lawmakers in North Carolina are advancing new legislation aimed at strengthening cooperation between state and federal immigration authorities. The proposed measures would require local law enforcement agencies to assist federal immigration officers in detaining and deporting undocumented immigrants, aligning state policies more closely with President Trump’s national immigration strategy.

The push comes amid growing tensions between Republican-led states and the Biden administration’s immigration policies, which GOP leaders have criticized as too lenient. North Carolina lawmakers argue that stricter enforcement is necessary to combat crime and ensure national security, while Democratic opponents claim the measures could lead to racial profiling and discourage immigrant communities from reporting crimes.

One of the key provisions in the proposed legislation would prohibit local governments from enacting “sanctuary” policies that limit cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Additionally, the bill seeks to impose penalties on jurisdictions that fail to comply, a tactic similar to laws passed in other Republican-controlled states such as Texas and Florida.

Supporters of the legislation argue that tougher enforcement will help prevent criminal activity linked to illegal immigration and improve public safety. Critics, however, warn that such policies could harm relations between law enforcement and immigrant communities, making it harder to investigate crimes and maintain trust.

With a Republican majority in North Carolina’s state legislature, the bills are expected to pass, though they may face legal challenges. As immigration remains a key issue for the 2025 election cycle, North Carolina’s policies could set the stage for broader national debates over state-level enforcement of federal immigration laws.